Anesthesia

Description of the Procedure

A small incision will be made behind the ear. Some tissue will be extracted from this area. This tissue will then be attached to the eardrum to cover the hole. Other materials may be added to hold the graft in place. If the bones of the middle ear need to be repaired, then this is done as well.

A small pack may be left in position in the ear canal. The incision behind the ear will be closed with stitches.

How Long Will It Take?

1-2 hours

Will It Hurt?

Anesthesia will prevent pain during surgery. Pain and discomfort after the procedure can be managed with medications.

Postprocedure Care

You will need reduce activities, especially those that cause strain like lifting. You may need to avoid flying and exposing the ear to water. Follow your doctor's instructions on how to wash your hair once you are at home. Complete recovery takes about 4 weeks.

Call Your Doctor

It is important to monitor your recovery. Alert your doctor to any problems. If any of the following occur, call your doctor:

Signs of infection, including fever and chills

Increasing fluid or foul-smelling fluid draining from the ear

Redness, swelling, increased pain, bleeding, or discharge from the incision site

Lightheadedness

Pain that cannot be controlled with the medications you were given

New or unexpected symptoms

If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.